Despite all his Strictly commitments, Craig Revel Horwood is back with his director and choreographer’s hat on in Son of a Preacher Man. The show follows hot on the heels of his choreography of the stage version of Sister Act.

We spoke to him ahead of the show opening at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells.

You became a director yourself after being a choreographer and not agreeing with the director, didn’t you?

I didn’t want to have a battle with the director and see the line where the director finishes his work and the choreography began. For me it’s a lot easier to have one concept of a piece applied. I did it so I could have arguments with myself rather than with someone else.

Tell us about the show you’re having arguments with yourself on.

Son of a Preacher Man is a joy to work on. I am delighted to bring to life for the very first time this wonderful story created by Warner Brown. I hope that audiences in Tunbridge Wells will come to love this warm-hearted and uplifting new musical as much as I do.

What do you think of Dusty Springfield’s music?

The Dusty music lends itself to good storytelling and that’s really important. Her stories always have a beginning, a middle and an end. And they’re very soulful. A lot of people will be surprised when they see the songs come to life. Her lyrics are really quite poignant. She tells human stories with amazing rhythms that can be applied to men or women and crosses through to being gay as well. That’s why her music is universal.

Tell us about your reputation for being (brutally) honest?

I just react to what I’m seeing. If I’m watching bad dancing I’ll tell them the truth. They need to know. If you’re not getting corrections I think that would be wrong. I don’t think it’s fair to say you love something if you don’t.

Do you have a fantasy cast of celebs you’d like to judge on Strictly?

I’d love to see Simon Cowell. The world would love that. Sharon Osbourne would be good because she’s very mouthy. Prince Harry would be fantastic. Why not? I’d love to see royalty.

THE SHOW

Joining the cast is Debra Stephenson, best known for her roles in Coronation Street and Bad Girls, and Diana Vickers, who first found fame on the X-Factor in 2008.

The swinging 1960s Soho joint where kids danced the night away while the legendary owner, The Preacher Man himself, dispensed advice, is a long time ago. All that remains are the memories and myths, until three random strangers, generations apart, but all in need of help, are drawn to the site of the original venue.

The touching yet funny show features the greatest hits of Dusty Springfield, including The Look Of Love, I Only Want To Be With You and of course, Son Of A Preacher Man.

THE DETAILS

The show will also be at the Assembly Hall Theatre in Tunbridge Wells from Tuesday, October 31 to Saturday, November 4. Tickets cost from £15. To book call 01892 530613 or visit assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk